AST Reygar will lead a new Innovate UK-funded project to develop an AI-driven tool for predicting vessel performance issues, with the aim of improving operational efficiency and reducing emissions in the commercial marine sector.
The seven-month initiative, titled Enhance Vessel AI, will begin in September 2025 and is expected to launch commercially in April 2026. The project is supported by the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE), part of the UK Government’s wider strategy to decarbonise maritime transport through data-led innovation.
The system will be developed using operational data from Seacat Services’ fleet of 18 crew transfer vessels (CTVs), which operate in the offshore wind sector. Other project partners include CrewSmart, developer of fleet and maintenance management software, and ORE Catapult, which will provide technical oversight and industry alignment.
The new software will use artificial intelligence to analyse real-time performance data alongside vessel maintenance records, building a predictive model that can identify early signs of degradation or faults. The tool is being designed to require minimal configuration and will adapt to various vessel types and propulsion systems, including diesel, electric and hybrid.
The project builds on AST Reygar’s existing BareFLEET monitoring platform and will integrate with CrewSmart’s maintenance system to create a live feedback loop between onboard performance and service history.
While initially focused on small workboats, the technology is being created for wider application across the commercial fleet.
